Rivian has introduced the R2 Performance, a smaller and more affordable electric SUV intended to bring the brand’s adventurous spirit to a wider audience. Starting at $57,990, the R2 Performance packs serious capability and premium features into a city-friendly package while delivering up to 330 miles of electric range. Positioned below Rivian’s flagship R1 lineup, the R2 aims to attract mainstream buyers seeking ruggedness without the hefty price tag.
The R2 Performance with Launch Package features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system producing 656 horsepower and 609 lb-ft of torque, enabling 0-60 mph acceleration in 3.6 seconds. This places the compact SUV solidly in the performance EV category, complemented by a quick 50-70 mph time of 1.55 seconds. Despite its smaller size-almost 2,000 pounds lighter than Rivian’s R1 models-the R2 doesn’t skimp on off-road ability, offering 9.6 inches of ground clearance, a 25-degree approach angle, and a 26-degree departure angle, with a towing capacity rated up to 4,400 pounds.
The R2 is designed for both urban environments and weekend adventures. It measures 185.9 inches in length with a 115.6-inch wheelbase, making it notably more maneuverable than the larger Rivian R1S SUV. New exterior colors include Catalina Cove and Esker Silver, alongside options like Forest Green. Wheel choices range from 19-inch all-season tires to 21-inch range-focused wheels, plus a 20-inch all-terrain package featuring BF Goodrich tires suited for off-road excursions.
Inside, the R2 carries Rivian’s minimalist interior ethos enhanced with natural materials and practical features. Storage is generous with 90.1 cubic feet of total cargo capacity, including a 5.2-cubic-foot front trunk. Notably, the rear drop glass window slides completely into the liftgate, allowing oversized gear like surfboards to fit without the tailgate needing to stay open. The cabin offers two premium interior themes emphasizing comfort and style for adventure-minded drivers.
Technology takes a leap with the R2’s new electrical architecture, supporting improved computing power and ongoing over-the-air updates. A comprehensive perception system includes 11 HDR cameras and five radars, enabling Rivian’s Autonomy+ hands-free driving across millions of road miles in North America. The system is available via subscription or one-time purchase. The interior features two digital displays, a redesigned steering wheel with haptic dials, and powerful onboard AI totaling 200 TOPS for future smart-driving innovations.
Besides the Performance trim, Rivian plans other R2 versions:
- Premium model arriving in 2026 for $53,990 with 450 hp AWD capable of 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds
- Standard R2 following in 2027 starting at $48,490 with single-motor rear-wheel drive, 350 hp, and 5.9-second 0-60 mph sprint
- Rumored additional $45,000 Standard trim with over 275 miles of range aimed at competing with Tesla’s Model Y Premium
While $58,000 is not exactly a bargain-basement price, the R2 is the most attainable Rivian model yet, bridging the gap below the $77,000 starting price of the smallest R1S version currently available. The R2 promises to make Rivian’s blend of performance, off-road skills, and tech accessible to a broader public. Deliveries for the R2 Launch Edition Performance are scheduled to begin in spring 2026, with reservations open for a refundable $100 deposit.